A BID for an extension to the Army's Bellerby ranges between Richmond and Leyburn is up for debate when planners meet tomorrow.

The need for upgraded shooting facilities was established under the armed forces' Options for Change programme in 1992, but was shelved until the MoD's budgets could stretch to cover the costs.

A formal application has now been submitted for a 600m target range at Moor End, south of Stainton.

If the project is approved, it will mean a new troop shelter, wardens' office, store and workshop, along with six firing positions.

The local parish council is not objecting, and a report says the scheme is unlikely to disrupt wildlife or the dales landscape.

However, ancient field boundaries and a prehistoric cooking site are situated close by - and the latter could qualify as a feature of national importance.

A formal response by North Yorkshire County Council's archaeology team is expected at tomorrow's meeting.

Meanwhile, Richmondshire district's planning officers have indicated their approval.